The opening hours of Gov. Matt Bevin's surprise special session on pensions ended with twin bills making their way to committee just before midnight - over the protests of Democrats and demonstrators, who say they're again being left in the dark.
For much of the evening, confusion reigned as lawmakers caucused behind closed doors on pension measures that are expected to closely resemble the now defunct Senate Bill 151, which was unanimously struck down by the state Supreme Court last week.
When House Bill 1 and 2 finally hit the floor, they were quickly given first readings and sent to committee.
Republican Rep. Jerry Miller argued the changes contained in the legislation are relatively minor and necessary to maintaining the state's ailing retirement systems.
"It's our intention to make sure these systems are solid, that our credit rating is not destroyed," the Louisville Republican told reporters. "And we are on a path to that and we cannot let that happen."
Yet the bills advanced over the strenuous objections of onlookers above, who cheered, booed, and heckled throughout the brief action on the chamber floor, calling legislators "sewer rats" and labeling them "worse than Nixon."
Democratic Minority Floor Leader Rocky Adkins led the charge against, saying the process is shutting out the public and driving straight toward another failed attempt at reform.
"We all know that that is not the way this train should be run," the gubernatorial candidate urged to applause from the gallery. "This is an important issue, Mr. Speaker."
Add to the mix periodic anti-Bevin Christmas carols, being sung by teachers and their supporters. But even with those interruptions, Rep. Miller said the bills will be up for discussion in committee Tuesday afternoon with a floor vote possibly as early as Wednesday.
